Normally when we read this passage from Mark our attention is drawn to the latter part where Jesus feeds the 5,000 with a few loaves and fishes. But there is much more to this reading that is worth considering. Initially, Jesus had wanted his disciples to have a chance to rest, but when they arrived at what he hoped would be a deserted place they were met by a multitude who had rushed to meet Jesus there. Mark tells us that “As he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things” (Mark 6:34).
I like to imagine this event as a scene in a movie. Jesus’ boat draws near to the edge of the lake already lined with people. Perhaps as he wades ashore they fall silent, waiting to see what he will do. As he begins to walk among them they reach out to him, begin to speak to him in broken phrases: “…heal me, Lord…”, “…Rabbi, what must I do…”, “…are you the one…”. In Jesus’ face we see a mixture of sorrow and of love. He cares deeply for what these people but grieves at their condition. So he motions for silence, and then speaks. Mark says “he began to teach them many things,” and we may assume that parables were involved, and the explanation of scripture. The people will have pushed forward to hear his words and they respond with excitement at what he tells them. The day wears on.
I wonder how this scene would play out in my life, or in yours. How might we respond to Jesus’ presence? What might we say to him, or ask of him? What of his teaching would we take with us when we finally returned home? The truth is we have the opportunity to experience the presence of Christ within the community of faith. In prayer we may speak to God in Christ, may open our hearts and express our deepest needs. In scripture we learn from Jesus, hear his parables and his words of comfort and challenge. This is indeed a scene in which, by God’s grace, we may participate. The stage is set, the action is about to begin, now is our time.
Prayer: Lord God, for your presence in our lives, your continued compassion, your mercy and grace, we give you thanks this day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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